Don't Do This

I recently attended a social event where the purpose was to welcome prospective members in order to showcase a religious organization, (to remain nameless), and hopefully have prospective members become paying members. I had looked forward to this event for weeks. I am enthusiastic about this organization and speak highly of it whenever I can.

This organization prides itself on its member’s sense of ‘belonging’. That I have never officially joined the organization is due in part to the fact that the cost is substantial, particularly in view of the fact that I am still unemployed. What I had hoped for from this event was to meet some of the membership committee on an informal level. I wanted to explore the option of perhaps offsetting the cost of membership with volunteer work or see if there were any other arrangements that could be made.

I never got the chance.

No one ever approached me even though it was evident I was alone. No one spoke to me, no one smiled at me, and no one came over to introduce themselves while I sat at a large table by myself. I went through the food service line where I smiled at the members serving the food. They were very busy talking and laughing among themselves. When I said hello one man at least made an attempt at hello back. And that was the end of any interaction.

Now don’t think for a moment that this is a ‘poor me’ speech. It isn’t. Instead this is a reminder that if you are trying to get people involved in your mission, your organization, your cause, at least take the time to look around and acknowledge the new people who show up.

I wish I had been on the membership committee. If I had been the very least I would have done is smiled, welcomed the new person, found them a table to sit at with other new people, asked their name, introduced myself by name, and perhaps most important, thanked them for taking the time to come by my organization and considering us for their interest in becoming a member.

If I had the membership dues to become a paying member this experience would have caused me to take a large pause. I have even rethought my idea of volunteer work. In fact, I have not been back. I left the event feeling unimportant and ignored. I don’t need bells and whistles; I was looking for a friendly face and a welcoming hello. I received neither.

So please, if you’re an organization looking for new members, volunteers, or contributions, don’t do what I experienced. Walk up to the person, extend your hand, smile, make them feel like you’re glad they came. You never know where it may lead.

Thanks for listening,
Lindy